Whether you’re about to start a new job, have mutually decided to part ways with your employer, have decided to quit and find a new opportunity, or are being respectfully let go, the last few weeks at a job you know you’re leaving can feel a bit out of place. You might not know what to do, how much to do, or how to say bye to your colleagues.
There are a few things you can do to end your employment with style, providing your soon-to-be former team with a bit of extra value and leaving a great final impression that keeps your network connected. Here’s how to do it.
Fix a long-term problem
As you wrap up the last two weeks of your job, you might find yourself lacking work. Your projects have wrapped up and you’re no longer working at full capacity, having either not taken on new assignments or handed off your responsibilities to a co-worker. This may seem like a time for rest and relaxation as you wait out your two weeks notice. In reality, it’s the perfect time to take on those one or two important projects you could never get to because the day-to-day was too time consuming.
In your time on the job, you’ve probably noticed plenty of red tape, inefficiencies, and downright senseless processes that hinder your team’s productivity. Take it upon yourself, at a time when you have the hours to spare, to brainstorm and implement a solution for some of those issues. Go to your manager with the problem and some ideas on how to fix it, and ask for permission to get it done. And if you get permission, follow through.
By repairing an inefficiency in your team, providing them with a new organizational structure for project management, or even implementing a new tech tool to help them with their daily workflow, you’ll be adding value in an area where they don’t have the resources to make an impact. It’s a great way to be remembered in your final days on the job.
Find and train a superstar replacement
Your two weeks notice gives your manager an opportunity to find a replacement that can take over your daily responsibilities. Try to take the lead on finding not just a suitable replacement, but a great new hire for your spot. You’re the only one that fully understands all the intricacies involved and attitudes required to be successful at your job.
If you do manage to quickly hire and train a replacement, your manager will thank you for it and any future success will be credited to your effort in the final days. Too many employees underestimate the responsibility they have in creating a smooth transition as they are leaving for a new role. Being conscientious and responsive to your team’s needs before you leave is a great way to be remembered as a thoughtful professional.
Arrange exit meetings
As you get ready to leave, it’s important that you revisit all your professional workplace relationships one last time. Arrange a time to chat with every person that you have a formal or friendly relationship with at your job. Whether it’s a lunch buddy, a favorite co-worker, your boss, or even a higher-up executive that you’ve gotten to know, it’s important that you leave the job having had a final chat with them.
Catch up, update them on your plans, check in on theirs, and get feedback when relevant. With your boss and any higher executives, consider bringing some constructive feedback of your own based on your observations on the job.
These meetings are a great way to wrap up your workplace relationships and convert them into long-term network contacts. You never know who might be helpful in a future job search or as future client. On the other hand, you never know who might need a job in the future, and as part of their professional network, you might be able to help. Opening up these options by leaving your job with style and grace will allow you to stay memorable and take advantage of your previous successes.